Influenza

Influenza (or flu) is a highly contagious viral respiratory tract infection. An estimated 10 to 20 percent of the population in the US contract influenza each year. Influenza is characterized by the abrupt onset of fever, muscle aches, sore throat, and a nonproductive cough.

What causes influenza? The influenza virus is generally passed from person to person by airborne transmission (i.e., sneezing or coughing). But, the virus can also live for a short time on objects—such as doorknobs, pens, pencils, keyboards, telephone receivers, and eating or drinking utensils. Therefore, it may also be spread by touching something that has been handled by someone infected with the virus and then touching your own mouth, nose, or eyes.

How can you tell if it’s actually the flu and not just a cold? The flu has distinct symptoms that seem to affect the whole body, If you do have the flu it’s important to take care of yourself by making an appointment to see your physician. Your doctor will determine the treatment that will be best for you.

Influenza results in thousands of deaths and hospitalizations each year, usually in individuals at high risk for complications. These include people ages 50 and older, adults and children with chronic or long-term lung conditions and people with congestive heart failure, diabetes, asthma, anemia, cancer, HIV, cystic fibrosis or kidney disease. Also at risk are women who will be more than three months pregnant during the flu season, residents of nursing homes and health care workers.

If you are at risk for complications, talk to your doctor about getting a flu vaccine each fall. For your convenience, Advocate Health Centers offers walk-in clinics in the fall where you can receive your free flu shot—no appointment is needed.

Do you need a physician? Call 1-800-3-ADVOCATE today for a free physician referral or view our doctor's directory online.